COFFEE giant Costa is aiming to set up a new cafe in St Helens town centre.

In what represents more upbeat news for the area after reports of further high street store closures, the national chain wants to locate at an empty shop on Church Street.

Plans submitted to St Helens Council seek permission to create the restaurant/cafe in the former Coverdales soft furnishing stores which slid into administration in January.

A separate application to place table and chairs outside the coffee shop will be made if the council grants planning permission.

The Star reported last week how Church Square Shopping Centre’s Burtons and Dorothy Perkins are due to close this month.